Wales second-row Alun Wyn Jones has handed Magners League Champions the Ospreys a huge boost by signing a new three-year deal with the region.
The 25-year-old Swansea born forward has established himself in the Welsh pack since making his debut back in 2006.
After coming through the Ospreys development system, Jones made his debut for the Ospreys in 2005 and has gone onto make 115 appearances and was named captain of the region this season.
“Obviously I’m really happy to be here for another three years, it’s my home region and I’m proud to represent the Ospreys. I’m thankful to the coaches and the directors for having the faith in me that they do, and for allowing me the opportunity to continue with the region,” said Jones.
“It’s taken longer than I anticipated to complete everything but I’ve never wanted to play anywhere else and I’ve never said otherwise. It’s flattering to have interest from France and offers from other clubs, but I’m very conscious that the grass isn’t always greener on the other side.
“It’s important to make sure everything is right when you are committing to a contract. I wanted to speak to the coaches and the board, to really understand the details of the changes they are making, and to see what their long term plans are. The evolution taking place here is very positive, the new facilities and players coming in makes me excited about the next three years. Let’s say that it would have been a far more difficult decision to move on than it has been to stay here.
“I know that I’m fortunate enough to wear the Ospreys shirt but I’m a fan first and foremost, and like our supporters, I feel bitterly disappointed if we fail to hit the highest standards that we all expect of the region. I give everything to the Ospreys, and I’m hopeful that over the next three years I can really help the team kick-on to the next level.”
Ospreys Forwards Coach Jonathan Humphreys is obviously delighted that the region has secured the services of their captain for another three years, and he commented:
“It’s a massive boost for everybody at the Ospreys that Alun Wyn, one of world rugby’s leading second rows, has committed his future to the region, and that he sees this environment as one where he can achieve his ambitions over the next three years.
“Alun Wyn is integral to what we do here, and to where we want to take the Ospreys moving forward. He is captain for a reason; he exhibits all the characteristics we want and expect from our players, demands the highest standards of himself and his colleagues, is ambitious, and has a desire to succeed. This is fantastic news.”
